Black Actresses Who Are Clearly Better Than The Roles Hollywood Keeps Giving Them

Hollywood frequently struggles to fully utilize the immense talent available within the industry. Many Black actresses consistently deliver powerhouse performances yet find themselves relegated to supporting characters or repetitive archetypes. These performers possess the range and charisma to carry major franchises and award-winning dramas as leads. Audiences and critics alike often note how they elevate every project they join regardless of their screen time. The following list highlights women who deserve more substantial and complex opportunities.

Nicole Beharie

Nicole Beharie burst onto the scene with a commanding presence in ‘American Violet’ and confirmed her talent in ‘Shame’. Her time on the series ‘Sleepy Hollow’ displayed her ability to anchor a supernatural procedural with grace and wit. Creative decisions on that show unfortunately sidelined her character despite her popularity with the fanbase. She later returned with a critically acclaimed performance in ‘Miss Juneteenth’ that highlighted her dramatic resilience. Critics consistently praise her ability to bring emotional depth to every character she portrays.

Gugu Mbatha-Raw

This British actress has proven her leading lady status in films like ‘Belle’ and ‘Beyond the Lights’. She possesses a rare combination of classical training and modern screen presence that fits any genre. Hollywood often casts her in science fiction projects like ‘The Cloverfield Paradox’ where the script does not match her skill level. Her work in ‘The Morning Show’ demonstrated her capacity to handle intense and complex dramatic arcs. She deserves more roles that center her as the primary protagonist rather than a supporting player.

Regina Hall

Regina Hall is widely recognized for her impeccable comedic timing in the ‘Scary Movie’ franchise. Many casting directors pigeonhole her into strictly humorous roles despite her evident versatility. Her performance in ‘Support the Girls’ earned her critical acclaim and demonstrated her capacity for subtle and emotional storytelling. She balances humor and heartbreak in a way that few performers can manage effectively. Hollywood frequently relies on her to save mediocre scripts rather than giving her the prestige projects she merits.

Meagan Good

Meagan Good has been a staple in Hollywood for decades with a resume spanning film and television. She often finds herself cast as the love interest or in supportive roles that do not fully utilize her dramatic range. Her performance in ‘Eve’s Bayou’ as a child actor hinted at a depth that industry executives rarely tap into. Recent projects like ‘Harlem’ allow her to showcase more nuance than previous stereotypical roles permitted. She commands the screen with a charisma that deserves more leading vehicle opportunities.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer successfully transitioned from a child star in ‘Akeelah and the Bee’ to a multimedia powerhouse. She is frequently hired for her charismatic personality and comedic chops in hosting gigs or lighthearted films. Her role in ‘Nope’ reminded audiences that she is a formidable dramatic actress capable of carrying a blockbuster. Casting directors often overlook her potential for gritty or serious roles in favor of her bubbly public persona. She has the range to tackle complex biopics and intense thrillers.

Tika Sumpter

Tika Sumpter first gained attention in soap operas before moving to primetime television and film. Her portrayal of Michelle Robinson in ‘Southside with You’ proved she could embody historical figures with grace and intelligence. She is often cast in comedies or as the sensible friend rather than the complex lead. Her work in ‘The Haves and the Have Nots’ displayed her ability to sustain a character over many seasons. She has the presence to lead major romantic dramas and political thrillers.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union has been a reliable box office draw since the late nineties. The industry frequently cast her in teen comedies and later as the best friend character for many years. Her work in ‘Being Mary Jane’ finally allowed her to explore a multi-dimensional character with flaws and ambition. She excels at playing women with sharp wit and vulnerability but often receives scripts that only require the former. Her longevity in the business warrants more roles that challenge her dramatic capabilities.

Aja Naomi King

Aja Naomi King stood out instantly among the ensemble cast of ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. She held her own against veteran actors and brought layers to a character that could have been one-note. Her film roles have been sporadic and often do not give her enough screen time to shine. She displayed significant promise in ‘The Birth of a Nation’ despite the controversy surrounding the film. She has the intensity and emotional accessibility to be a major film star.

Emayatzy Corinealdi

Emayatzy Corinealdi delivered a stunning breakout performance in Ava DuVernay’s ‘Middle of Nowhere’. That role showcased her quiet strength and ability to convey volumes with a simple look. Since then she has appeared in various television projects like ‘Ballers’ often in supporting capacities. Her recent work in ‘Reasonable Doubt’ has given her a platform to lead a series again. She possesses a gravitas that is perfect for prestige dramas and award-contending films.

Kylie Bunbury

Kylie Bunbury showed incredible promise as the lead in the baseball drama ‘Pitch’. The show was cancelled prematurely and left audiences wanting to see more of her work. She brings a natural athleticism and emotional intelligence to her performances. Hollywood often places her in ensemble casts where she does not get the focus she deserves. She has the star quality to lead action franchises or character-driven limited series.

Kiersey Clemons

Kiersey Clemons has a unique energy that works well in both indie films and blockbusters. She often plays the quirky best friend or the love interest in films like ‘Dope’ and ‘Hearts Beat Loud’. Her casting in ‘The Flash’ faced delays and cuts that minimized her involvement in the superhero genre. She consistently elevates the material she is given with her distinctive charm. She deserves roles that explore her range beyond the sidekick archetype.

Laura Harrier

Laura Harrier gained significant visibility with her role in ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’. She followed that up with a strong performance in ‘BlacKkKlansman’ as a dedicated activist. Despite these high-profile projects she often disappears into the background of larger ensembles. Her work shows a quiet intensity that suggests she could handle psychological thrillers or period pieces. Casting agents need to see her as more than just the love interest in male-dominated stories.

Yaya DaCosta

Yaya DaCosta successfully moved from reality television to a respected acting career. She was a standout in ‘Chicago Med’ for several seasons before leaving to pursue other opportunities. Her performance as Whitney Houston in a biopic demonstrated her ability to embody iconic figures. She often brings a regal presence to her roles that elevates the production value. She has the talent to lead feature films rather than staying confined to procedural television.

Rutina Wesley

Rutina Wesley is best known for her role as Tara Thornton in ‘True Blood’. The writers of that show frequently put her character through traumatic storylines that frustrated fans. She later shined in ‘Queen Sugar’ which finally gave her material worthy of her talents. She brings a raw and powerful emotion to her work that is mesmerizing to watch. She deserves to be in major motion pictures that utilize her intense dramatic capability.

Sonequa Martin-Green

Sonequa Martin-Green broke barriers as the lead in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’. While she leads the show she is often constrained by the heavy sci-fi jargon and action sequences. Her earlier work in ‘The Walking Dead’ showed she could handle physical roles with deep emotional stakes. She has the potential to cross over into contemporary dramas that focus on character study. Hollywood often keeps her in the sci-fi box despite her broader potential.

Simone Missick

Simone Missick became a fan favorite as Misty Knight in the Marvel Netflix series ‘Luke Cage’. She brought a commanding authority to the role that demanded attention whenever she was on screen. She currently leads ‘All Rise’ where she plays a judge with compassion and strength. Her ability to project authority makes her perfect for high-stakes political dramas. She should be top of the list for roles requiring powerful female leadership.

Teyonah Parris

Teyonah Parris has been building an impressive resume with projects like ‘Dear White People’ and ‘Chi-Raq’. She joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe in ‘WandaVision’ and ‘The Marvels’ but was part of a large ensemble. Her performance in ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ showed her ability to handle tender and poetic material. She balances strength and vulnerability in a way that is captivating. She needs more solo vehicles that allow her to be the sole focus of the narrative.

Wunmi Mosaku

Wunmi Mosaku is a British actress who steals every scene she is in. She won a BAFTA for ‘Damilola, Our Loved Boy’ and terrified audiences in ‘Lovecraft Country’. Her role in ‘Loki’ introduced her to a massive global audience as a formidable authority figure. She often plays supporting characters that end up being the most interesting part of the story. She has the range to play villains and heroines alike in major studio releases.

Weruche Opia

Weruche Opia delivered a breakout performance in the critically acclaimed series ‘I May Destroy You’. She played a complex friend role that required balancing comedy with deep trauma. Her timing is impeccable and she has a face that the camera loves. Industry executives should be rushing to cast her in leading roles in both comedies and dramas. She brings a fresh energy that Hollywood desperately needs.

Amber Riley

Amber Riley is a vocal powerhouse who carried many musical numbers in ‘Glee’. Despite her immense talent she is often relegated to roles that focus solely on her singing ability. She proved her acting chops on stage in ‘Dreamgirls’ and deserves similar opportunities on screen. Casting directors frequently overlook her for non-musical dramatic roles. She has the charisma and presence to be a leading lady in various genres.

Kimberly Elise

Kimberly Elise is a dramatic heavyweight known for tear-jerkers like ‘Set It Off’ and ‘Diary of a Mad Black Woman’. She is often typecast as the suffering woman who must overcome immense tragedy. Her performances are always grounded and deeply affecting regardless of the script quality. She rarely gets the chance to play lighthearted roles or sophisticated villains. Her filmography proves she is one of the most reliable actors working today.

Carmen Ejogo

Carmen Ejogo has a chameleon-like ability to disappear into her roles. She has played historical figures in ‘Selma’ and ‘Boycott’ with incredible dignity. She often appears in supporting roles in films like ‘Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them’. Her elegance and range suggest she should be leading period dramas and international thrillers. She is a criminally underused talent who adds weight to every project.

Jurnee Smollett

Jurnee Smollett has been acting since childhood and has never delivered a bad performance. Her lead role in ‘Lovecraft Country’ allowed her to display action skills alongside deep emotional work. She often elevates material that is beneath her skill level through sheer force of will. Her performance in ‘Birds of Prey’ was a highlight of the film. She is a movie star who is frequently treated like a character actor.

Bresha Webb

Bresha Webb is a comedic genius who often brightens up mediocre sitcoms. She displayed her dramatic range in ‘Run the World’ and proved she can handle serious topics. Her improvisational skills and facial expressions are top-tier. Hollywood tends to cast her as the funny sidekick rather than the romantic lead. She has the potential to be the next great rom-com queen.

Yvonne Orji

Yvonne Orji is best known for her role as Molly in the hit series ‘Insecure’. She took a character that could have been unlikable and made her complex and sympathetic. Her stand-up comedy background gives her a sharp wit that translates well to screen. She deserves opportunities to lead films that explore the immigrant experience and modern dating. She has the style and substance to be a major fashion and film icon.

Ryan Destiny

Ryan Destiny is a triple threat who can act, sing, and dance. She shone in the musical drama ‘Star’ despite the show’s soapy storylines. Her performance in ‘The Fire Inside’ recently garnered critical attention and award buzz. She has a classic movie star look that recalls the golden age of Hollywood. Casting directors need to trust her with major vehicles that utilize all her talents.

Lovie Simone

Lovie Simone is a young actress who commanded the screen in ‘Selah and the Spades’. She brings a naturalism to her roles that is rare for someone her age. She stood out in the sequel ‘The Craft: Legacy’ amongst a talented cast. Her ability to play both innocence and manipulation is fascinating to watch. She is a rising star who needs projects that nurture her obvious potential.

Dominique Fishback

Dominique Fishback is an intense performer who commits fully to every role. She received a BAFTA nomination for her supporting role in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’. Her performance in ‘Swarm’ was terrifying and brilliant showing her range. She transforms physically and emotionally for her characters. She deserves to be the face of major artistic films.

Nathalie Emmanuel

Nathalie Emmanuel gained fame as Missandei in ‘Game of Thrones’. She often plays the hacker or the sidekick in franchises like ‘Fast & Furious’. Her work in ‘The Invitation’ showed she could lead a horror film effectively. She has a charming screen presence that is often underutilized in action blockbusters. She needs roles that allow her to be more than just exposition delivery.

Lashana Lynch

Lashana Lynch made history as the first Black female 007 in ‘No Time to Die’. She also played a key role in ‘The Woman King’ showcasing her physical prowess. Despite these high-profile roles she is often in support of other protagonists. She has the charisma and strength to launch her own action franchise. Hollywood has only scratched the surface of what she can do.

Jodie Turner-Smith

Jodie Turner-Smith stunned audiences with her debut in ‘Queen & Slim’. She brings a regal and otherworldly quality to her performances. She played the lead in the miniseries ‘Anne Boleyn’ which challenged traditional casting. Her visual impact on screen is undeniable and powerful. She should be leading high-concept sci-fi and fantasy epics.

Kiki Layne

Kiki Layne made a beautiful debut in ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. She followed that with an action role in ‘The Old Guard’ showing her versatility. She has appeared in other projects but often in smaller roles than expected after such a strong start. She has a gentle strength that is captivating on camera. She deserves a career trajectory that keeps her in the spotlight.

Dewanda Wise

Dewanda Wise was electric as Nola Darling in the series ‘She’s Gotta Have It’. She brings a confidence and swagger to her roles that is infectious. Her role in ‘Jurassic World Dominion’ introduced her to blockbuster audiences as a pilot. She has the charisma to be an action star or a romantic lead. She is often cast in cool supporting roles rather than the main focus.

Sharon Leal

Sharon Leal is another veteran actress who is always reliable. She shined in ‘Dreamgirls’ and the ‘Why Did I Get Married?’ films. She often plays the professional woman or the wife in domestic dramas. Her musical theatre background is rarely utilized on screen. She has the talent to carry a musical film or a complex TV drama.

Anika Noni Rose

Anika Noni Rose is a Tony Award winner and the voice of Disney’s first Black princess. On screen she often plays supporting roles in films like ‘Dreamgirls’ and ‘For Colored Girls’. Her voice and acting ability are formidable and command attention. She dominates the stage but Hollywood rarely gives her equal footing. She should be starring in major musical adaptations.

Sophie Okonedo

Sophie Okonedo is an Oscar nominee for ‘Hotel Rwanda’ and a Tony winner. She frequently appears in British television and theater where she plays complex leads. In Hollywood films she is often cast in small eccentric roles or as support. Her talent is undeniable and she brings gravitas to everything she does. She deserves the Meryl Streep treatment with diverse and challenging lead roles.

Naomie Harris

Naomie Harris is a versatile actress who received an Oscar nomination for ‘Moonlight’. She plays Moneypenny in the Bond films but often has limited screen time. Her work in ’28 Days Later’ showed her survivalist grit early on. She transforms for every role she takes on. She needs more scripts that center her journey rather than the men around her.

Audra McDonald

Audra McDonald is a Broadway legend with a record-breaking number of Tony Awards. In television and film she is often a guest star or a supporting character like in ‘The Gilded Age’. Her dramatic range matches her vocal ability and is largely untapped by Hollywood. She brings a history of excellence to every frame she occupies. She should be the lead in prestige biopics and dramas.

Susan Kelechi Watson

Susan Kelechi Watson was the heart of the family in ‘This Is Us’. She played the perfect wife and mother but showed flashes of her own desires and flaws. Her background is in theater and she has significant range beyond domestic roles. Casting directors often look to her for maternal figures. She has the fire and intelligence to play political leaders or complex villains.

Danai Gurira

Danai Gurira is iconic as Michonne in ‘The Walking Dead’ and Okoye in the MCU. Beyond her action roles she is a celebrated playwright of deep, complex dramas. She brings an intellectual intensity to her physical performances. Hollywood focuses heavily on her warrior persona and ignores her softer dramatic side. She has the capability to lead Oscar-winning dramas.

Moses Ingram

Moses Ingram held her own in ‘The Queen’s Gambit’ and ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’. She brings a unique energy that is both modern and timeless. Her role in ‘The Tragedy of Macbeth’ showed she can handle Shakespearean dialogue with ease. She is a rising talent who needs to be nurtured with diverse roles. She has the potential to be a defining actress of her generation.

Anna Diop

Anna Diop faces intense scrutiny as Starfire in ‘Titans’ but delivers a strong performance. Her lead role in the horror film ‘Nanny’ showcased her ability to carry a film alone. She conveys deep emotion and terror with subtle facial expressions. She is often recognized for her striking look but her acting ability is the real draw. She deserves more psychological horror and drama scripts.

Damaris Lewis

Damaris Lewis transitioned from modeling to acting with a role in ‘BlacKkKlansman’. She played a key role in ‘Titans’ as Blackfire showing her commanding presence. Her stature and poise make her perfect for fantasy and sci-fi royalty. Hollywood is just beginning to scratch the surface of her potential. She needs roles that allow her to speak and emote as much as she poses.

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor received a long-overdue Oscar nomination for ‘King Richard’. She has been working consistently for decades in roles that were often beneath her talent. She elevates procedural dramas and supporting film roles with her authenticity. She brings a lived-in quality to her characters that makes them feel real. She should be top of the list for every major matriarchal or historical role.

Alfre Woodard

Alfre Woodard is legendary with multiple Emmys and an Oscar nomination. Despite her status she is frequently cast in small supporting roles or in low-budget projects. She has the ability to convey entire histories with a single glance. Her performance in ‘Clemency’ was a reminder of her devastating power as a lead. The industry owes her the kind of late-career renaissance often given to her white contemporaries.

Loretta Devine

Loretta Devine has one of the most recognizable voices in the industry. She is often typecast as the mother figure or the church lady. Her work in ‘Waiting to Exhale’ showed she could play complex romantic leads. She brings warmth and humor to every role but has deep dramatic reserves. She deserves scripts that explore the lives of older women with nuance.

Marianne Jean-Baptiste

Marianne Jean-Baptiste was the first Black British actress nominated for an Oscar for ‘Secrets & Lies’. She is often found in police procedurals like ‘Without a Trace’. Her recent role in ‘In Fabric’ showed her ability to lead strange and artistic films. She has a grounded realism that is perfect for gritty dramas. She is a world-class actor who is often treated like a day player.

Thandiwe Newton

Thandiwe Newton has been a star for decades appearing in ‘Crash’ and ‘Westworld’. She often plays the sophisticated yet damaged woman. Her performance in ‘Westworld’ earned her an Emmy and showed her incredible range as an android. She is frequently a supporting player in major films like ‘Solo: A Star Wars Story’. She has the complexity and experience to lead major studio films.

Rosario Dawson

Rosario Dawson has been in everything from ‘Kids’ to ‘Ahsoka’. She is the go-to actress for tough yet vulnerable characters. She often bridges the gap between indie credibility and blockbuster appeal. Despite her fame she is rarely given the role of the sole protagonist in film. She has the energy and fanbase to carry a franchise on her own terms.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson is everywhere from ‘Creed’ to ‘Thor: Ragnarok’. She often plays the supportive partner or the cool warrior. Her work in ‘Sylvie’s Love’ showed she is a captivating romantic lead. She brings intelligence and modernity to period pieces and sci-fi alike. She deserves more roles that center her perspective rather than supporting a male lead.

Let us know which of these actresses you think deserves a major leading role in the comments.